How to Get a Russian Visa for Australians
Everything you need to know about traveling to Russia from Australia. E-Visa eligibility, traditional visa requirements, costs, and processing times.
Quick Summary for Australians
- E-Visa Eligible: No. Australia is not on the eligible list. Traditional visa required.
- Traditional Visa Fee: AUD $110 (approx. current terms shown before payment) for standard processing.
- Processing Time: 10–15 business days (standard) or 3–5 days (express).
- Insurance: Mandatory for Australian citizens.
Russian E-Visa vs Traditional Visa
Important: Australia is NOT on the current list of 64 countries eligible for the Russian E-Visa. Australian citizens must apply for a traditional visa with an invitation letter through a Russian consulate or visa center.
| Feature | E-Visa | Traditional Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Stay | 30 days | Up to 90 days (Tourist) |
| Entries | Single entry only | Single or Double entry |
| Application Process | 100% Online | In-person at Embassy/Consulate |
| Invitation Letter | Not required | Required |
| Processing Time | ~4 calendar days | 10–15 business days |
Requirements for Traditional Visa
If you plan to stay in Russia for more than 30 days, or need a double-entry visa, you must apply for a traditional paper visa. Here is what you need:
1. Original Passport
Your Australian passport must have at least 2 blank pages and be valid for 6 months beyond your intended exit date from Russia.
2. Invitation Letter
An official tourist voucher from a registered Russian travel agency. We can provide this within minutes.
3. Travel Insurance
Mandatory for Australians. Must cover the entire duration of your stay and explicitly mention coverage in Russia.
4. Application Form & Photo
Completed online on the MFA website, printed, signed, with a recent 3.5x4.5 cm passport photo attached.
Visa Costs for Australians
Consular Fees
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Get Your Invitation Letter
Order your official Russian visa invitation letter (tourist voucher) online. You will receive it via email within minutes.
Complete the Application Form
Fill out the official visa application form on the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and print it.
Gather Required Documents
Collect your passport, printed application form, passport photo, invitation letter, and proof of travel insurance.
Submit Your Application
Submit your documents and pay the consular fee at the Russian Embassy in Canberra or the Consulate General in Sydney.
Collect Your Visa
Wait for the processing time (10-15 days standard) and collect your passport with the Russian visa stamped inside.
Russian Consulates in Australia
You must submit your traditional visa application to the diplomatic mission that covers your state of residence.
Embassy of Russia in Canberra
- 78 Canberra Avenue, Griffith, ACT 2603
- australia.mid.ru
- Jurisdiction: ACT, NSW, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, WA
Consulate General in Sydney
- 7-9 Fullerton Street, Woollahra, NSW 2025
- Jurisdiction: NSW and surrounding areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Need an Invitation Letter?
Get your official Russian tourist voucher in minutes. Reviewed by the competent authority for each application in Australia.
- Instant email delivery
- terms shown before payment
- Secure payment
E-Visa Guide
Australian citizens are NOT eligible for the Russian e-visa. A traditional visa with invitation letter is required.
Read Complete E-Visa Guide